In a market where used smartphones are rapidly gaining traction, owning a recent iPhone that’s just sitting idle could represent a missed opportunity. With increasing demand and strong resale values, especially for Apple devices, now is an ideal time to consider turning that unused gadget into cash. Whether you’re planning to upgrade, declutter, or simply capitalize on the current trends, here is what you need to know about the booming market for pre-owned iPhones and your best options for selling them.
Used Smartphones Outperform New Sales Growth
Used smartphone sales are growing faster than new phone sales. Last year saw a 6% increase in used handset sales versus a 4% rise for new devices, as reported by CCS Insight. IDC anticipates that sales of pre-owned devices will continue this momentum, with growth predicted at 3.2% in 2025—triple the anticipated growth for new smartphones.
The Exceptional Value Retention of iPhones
Apple's iPhones consistently retain more of their original price compared to other brands. In the U.S., used smartphones generated $7.6 billion in revenue, and in the Asia-Pacific region, the figure skyrocketed to $13.2 billion. Refurbished phones, which now often include warranties and flexible financing, have become more trusted among consumers, according to Leo Gebbie, principal analyst at CCS Insight.
According to B-Stock, a leading B2B marketplace for liquidation and overstock, units of the iPhone 17 are fetching 94% of their original retail price at auctions. The iPhone 16 similarly maintains about 72% of its value. The most sought-after models currently include the iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and iPhone 14 Pro Max.
If You’re Dissatisfied With Your iPhone Air, Selling Now Could Minimize Losses
If your iPhone Air has been underwhelming, it may be wise to sell it quickly before its value drops further. On consumer-friendly platforms like SellCell, an unlocked 512GB iPhone Air in mint condition can fetch up to $862—down from its $1,199 launch price. The 256GB model sells for around $782, compared to $999 at release.
Apple’s Record-Breaking iPhone Sales Outlook for 2025
Strong pre-owned iPhone sales are not expected to negatively impact new iPhone demand. In fact, Apple is forecasting record sales of 247.4 million iPhones in 2025, surpassing the 2021 record of 242 million units. This growth is partially fueled by Apple's remarkable market share gains in China, where it achieved 20% share in late 2023, significantly outperforming analysts’ projections.
How to Sell Your Older Device Most Effectively
Your best chance of maximizing returns is usually via a private sale, though it demands more effort and negotiation skill. Alternatively, automated kiosks like ecoATM offer convenience, with over 7,000 locations across the U.S., but often at much lower prices.
Comparing ecoATM, Gazelle, and SellCell for Selling Phones
Checking prices online before selling is crucial. For example, the ecoATM app valued a pristine 512GB Pixel 6 Pro at only $4, which is disappointing for many. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro Max with a perfect screen could bring in over $200 through ecoATM.
Gazelle offers better prices, quoting $104 for the Pixel 6 Pro and $431 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with payment sent within about a week.
SellCell, acting as a price aggregator, shows the highest offers from various platforms: $129 for the Pixel 6 Pro and $358 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
What Consumers Prefer When Getting Rid of Old Phones
A recent poll reveals 47% of people keep their old phones, while 37% prefer selling through personal transactions. About 10% use resale websites like Gazelle or SellCell, and a smaller percentage rely on automated kiosks like ecoATM.
With the strong demand and excellent resale values for recent iPhones, there has never been a better time to convert that unused device into cash.
